Mechanical Engineering Co‑op, Robot Hardware
About the role
You'll design and build real hardware for our teleoperated robots and for the exoskeleton operators wear to drive them: actuators, limbs, end effectors and the structures that hold them together. You'll own a real subsystem, work directly with our hardware lead, and go from napkin sketch to CAD to machined part to working robot in days, not quarters. This is a hands-on role for someone who builds things because they can't help it.
What you'll do
- Own the mechanical design of a defined subsystem (a joint, end effector, exoskeleton link or test fixture) from concept to working hardware
- Design and integrate mechanisms and transmissions (harmonic, cycloidal or planetary reducers, belt and cable drives) for high torque density and low backlash
- Prototype in house using machining, 3D printing and fabrication
- Build test rigs and fixtures, then break, iterate and harden hardware based on what fails
- Design parts for real manufacturing processes (CNC, sheet metal) and work with our vendors and machine shops
- Run first-principles analysis (structural, thermal, kinematic) to back your design decisions
- Work with the controls and electrical teams on sensor integration, cable routing, thermal management and URDF/model accuracy
What we're looking for
- Pursuing a Bachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Robotics or a related field (or equivalent demonstrated ability)
- A portfolio of parts and assemblies you designed that were actually built. Student teams count (rocketry, Formula SAE, robotics)
- Strong CAD skills (SolidWorks, Onshape, NX or similar)
- Practical knowledge of mechanisms, materials, fasteners, bearings and power transmission
- Hands-on machining and fabrication: you can run a mill, lathe or CNC yourself
- Working knowledge of tolerancing and design for manufacturing. GD&T is a plus
Bonus
- Serious personal hardware projects (built your own CNC, engine, vehicle, robot). Please tell us about them
- Experience with robotic actuators, exoskeletons, humanoids or dexterous hands
- FEA and thermal simulation (ANSYS, Abaqus or similar)
- Designing for harsh or hazardous environments (high voltage, outdoor, field-deployed)
What you'll get
- Ownership of hardware that ends up in front of electricians and linemen, not a side project
- Mentorship from the engineers who designed our robot and exoskeleton
- A path to a full-time offer
About Mundane
Mundane builds force-feedback teleoperation for dangerous, hands-on work. A skilled tradesperson wears our exoskeleton and works through a robot on site, seeing in stereo and feeling the forces it meets, from outside the hazard. We're starting with energized electrical work and expanding across the trades. Every job also produces the force-rich data that robot learning is missing. We're a small, venture-backed team in Palo Alto.
Work authorization
Please tell us whether you're authorized to work in the US and whether you'll need visa sponsorship now or in the future.
Equal opportunity
Mundane is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants from every background and don't discriminate on the basis of any legally protected characteristic.